U.S. patent application number 14/964760 was filed with the patent office on 2017-06-15 for display system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Atomic Design Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Atomic Design Inc.. Invention is credited to Thomas McPhillips.
Application Number | 20170171991 14/964760 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59020916 |
Filed Date | 2017-06-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170171991 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McPhillips; Thomas |
June 15, 2017 |
Display System
Abstract
A display system is provided and includes a first modular panel
having a display element, a plurality of first connectors connected
to the first modular panel, a plurality of first rods having a
distal end connected to the plurality of first connectors, and a
plurality of second connectors engaging with proximal ends of the
plurality of first rods.
Inventors: |
McPhillips; Thomas;
(Manheim, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Atomic Design Inc. |
Lititz |
PA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Atomic Design Inc.
Lititz
PA
|
Family ID: |
59020916 |
Appl. No.: |
14/964760 |
Filed: |
December 10, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G09F 15/0068 20130101;
G09F 9/3026 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H05K 5/00 20060101
H05K005/00; H05K 5/02 20060101 H05K005/02 |
Claims
1. A display system, comprising: a first modular panel having a
display element; a plurality of first connectors connected to the
first modular panel; a plurality of first rods having a distal end
connected to the plurality of first connectors; and a plurality of
second connectors engaging with proximal ends of the plurality of
first rods.
2. The display system according to claim 1, wherein each of the
first connectors includes a plurality of fastener receiving
passageways.
3. The display system according to claim 2, further comprising a
plurality of fasteners, the fasteners extending through the
plurality of fastener receiving passageways and connecting the
first connectors to the first modular panel.
4. The display system according to claim 1, wherein each of the
second connectors includes a mating element.
5. The display system according to claim 4, wherein the plurality
of second connectors are matingly and removably connected.
6. The display system according to claim 5, wherein the mating
element is a dovetail connector.
7. The display system according to claim 1, wherein the display
element is disposed on a first side of the first modular panel.
8. The display system according to claim 7, wherein the plurality
of first connectors are disposed on a second side of the first
modular panel opposite the first side.
9. The display system according to claim 1, further comprising a
base including a base body, a plurality of base connectors, a
plurality of base rods, and a third connector.
10. The display system according to claim 9, wherein the plurality
of base connectors are connected to the base body.
11. The display system according to claim 10, wherein the base body
includes a plurality of base fastener receiving passageways.
12. The display system according to claim 11, further comprising a
plurality of fasteners, the fasteners extending through the
plurality of base fastener receiving passageways and connecting the
base connectors to the base body.
13. The display system according to claim 10, wherein the plurality
of base rods have a distal end connected to the plurality of base
connectors.
14. The display system according to claim 13, wherein the third
connector engages with the proximal ends of the plurality of base
rods.
15. The display system according to claim 14, wherein the third
connector includes a planar surface, a mating connector on a first
side of the planar surface, and a plurality of cylindrical members
on the opposite side of the planar surface extending away from the
planar surface.
16. The display system according to claim 9, wherein the first
modular panel is removably connected to the base.
17. The display system according to claim 16, wherein first
connectors of the first modular panel are removably connected to
the base.
18. The display system according to claim 17, wherein a second
connector of the first modular panel abuts the third connector.
19. The display system according to claim 18, further comprising a
second modular panel removably connected to the first modular
panel.
20. The display system according to claim 19, wherein first
connectors of the first modular panel are connected to first
connectors of the second modular panel.
21. The display system according to claim 20, further comprising a
second rod, a proximal end of the second rod engaging with the
second connector of the first modular panel and the third
connector.
22. The display system according to claim 21, further comprising an
end member, the end member engaging with the distal end of the
second rod and the second connector of the second modular
panel.
23. The display system according to claim 22, further comprising a
third modular panel removably connected to the second modular
panel.
24. The display system according to claim 23, wherein first
connectors of the second modular panel are connected to first
connectors of the third modular panel.
25. The display system according to claim 23, further comprising a
third rod having a proximal end and an end loop on the distal
end.
26. The display system according to claim 25, wherein the end loop
of the third rod engages with the end member and a second connector
of the second modular panel.
27. The display system according to claim 26, wherein the proximal
end of the third rod engages with a second connector of the third
modular panel.
28. The display system according to claim 1, further comprising a
second modular panel removably connected to the first modular
panel.
29. The display system according to claim 28, wherein first
connectors of the first modular panel are connected to first
connectors of the second modular panel.
30. The display system according to claim 29, wherein a fourth rod
connects a second connector of the first modular panel to a second
connector of the second modular panel.
31. A display connector assembly, comprising: a base; a pair of end
walls extending upward from and positioned along a distal end of
the base; a support connector positioned about a proximal end of
the base and extending from an upper surface of the base at an
angle; and a plurality of fastener receiving passageways disposed
along the base and each of the pair of end walls.
32. The display connector assembly according to claim 31, wherein
the pair of end walls are positioned orthogonal with respect to
each other and the base.
33. The display connector assembly according to claim 31, wherein
the angle of the support connector with respect to the base is less
than 90.degree..
34. The display connector assembly according to claim 33, wherein
the angle of the support connector with respect to the base is
between 30.degree. and 60.degree..
35. The display connector assembly according to claim 34, wherein
the angle of the support connector with respect to the base is
45.degree..
36. The display connector assembly according to claim 31, wherein
the plurality of fastener receiving passageways extend through the
display connector assembly.
37. The display connector assembly according to claim 31, wherein
the display connector assembly further includes an outer edge
wall.
38. The display connector assembly according to claim 37, wherein
the outer edge wall extends around a perimeter of the base between
the proximal and distal ends.
39. The display connector assembly according to claim 38, further
comprising a flange around a circumference of the support
connector.
40. The display connector assembly according to claim 39, wherein
the flange is disposed at an intersection of the support connector
and the outer edge wall.
41. The display connector assembly according to claim 40, wherein
the outer edge wall is orthogonal to the base.
42. The display connector assembly according to claim 41, wherein
the pair of end walls extend further from the base than the outer
edge wall.
43. A display connector assembly, comprising: a pair of removably
connected display connectors, wherein each display connector of the
pair of removably connected display connectors includes: a top
surface; a rod receiving passageway positioned at a distal end of
the top surface; a plurality of support connectors positioned about
a proximal end of the top surface and extending from the top
surface at an angle; and a bottom surface having a mating element
extending therefrom.
44. The display connector assembly according to claim 43, wherein
the display connectors are removably connected through the mating
elements.
45. The display connector assembly according to claim 44, wherein
the mating elements are keyed.
46. The display connector assembly according to claim 45, wherein
the mating elements are dovetail connectors.
47. The display connector assembly according to claim 43, wherein
the angle of the support connectors with respect to the top surface
is less than 90.degree..
48. The display connector assembly according to claim 47, wherein
the angle of the support connectors with respect to the top surface
is between 30.degree. and 60.degree..
49. The display connector assembly according to claim 48, wherein
the angle of the support connectors with respect to the top surface
is 45.degree..
50. The display connector assembly according to claim 43, wherein
the rod receiving passageway extends through the second
connector.
51. The display connector assembly according to claim 43, wherein
the display connector further includes an outer wall.
52. The display connector assembly according to claim 51, wherein
the outer wall extends around a perimeter of the top surface
between the proximal and distal ends.
53. The display connector assembly according to claim 52, wherein
the outer wall is orthogonal to the top surface.
54. The display connector assembly according to claim 43, wherein
the display connector further includes a plurality of support
elements disposed on the top surface.
55. The display connector assembly according to claim 54, wherein
the plurality of support elements extend between the rod receiving
passageway and the plurality of support connectors.
56. The display connector assembly according to claim 43, wherein
the rod receiving passageway has an outer ring and an inner
ring.
57. The display connector assembly according to claim 56, wherein
the inner ring is disposed within the outer ring.
58. The display connector assembly according to claim 57, wherein
the inner ring forms a flange within the outer ring.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates to a display system and, more
particularly, to a portable display system for connecting a
plurality of modular units.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Decorative modular displays are commonly used in stage and
set design. Generally, modular units are hung from a hanging frame
using backdrop technology. A known modular display system uses a
truss or theatre fly-system pipes to hang modular panels that clip
together using rings or hooks to form a backdrop, which results is
a decorative surface that is aesthetic while also increasing the
range of available lighting effects. The backdrop is sized to fit
the space required. In some circumstances, a floor system may be
used instead of a truss and/or backdrop. In the known floor display
system, a temporary structure is set up from the floor, rather than
suspended from the ceiling. The known floor display system includes
metal pipes or tubes that connect to each other and the modular
units hang from these metal pipes or tubes. Additionally, when
using these pipes in the known display system, connecting pipes are
commonly over tightened and damaged, and the modular units attached
to the pipes are restricted from free movement about the pipe.
[0003] In both known display systems, the display systems are
restricted from free movement of the display or individual modular
units. Furthermore, these known display systems include complex or
permanent attachment mechanisms to connect one modular unit to an
adjacent modular unit. Such attachment restricts replacement of
each modular unit and limits the flexibility of the entire display
system. These known designs are expensive and require tedious,
time-consuming labor in both assembly and dis-assembly. It has long
been desired to have a modular display system that can be quickly
constructed and deconstructed without sacrificing the structural
integrity of the system.
SUMMARY
[0004] Accordingly, a display system is provided. The display
system includes a first modular panel having a display element, a
plurality of first connectors connected to the first modular panel,
a plurality of first rods having a distal end connected to the
plurality of first connectors, and a plurality of second connectors
engaging with proximal ends of the plurality of first rods.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] The invention will now be described by way of example with
reference to the accompanying figures, of which:
[0006] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a modular display
system according to the invention;
[0007] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the modular display
system of FIG. 1;
[0008] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first connector of the
modular display system according to the invention;
[0009] FIG. 4 is a top view of the first connector of FIG. 3;
[0010] FIG. 5 is a top sectional view of the modular display
system;
[0011] FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the modular display system,
taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5;
[0012] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of a second connector of a
modular display system according to the invention;
[0013] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the second connector
of FIG. 7;
[0014] FIG. 9 is a top view of the second connector of FIG. 7;
[0015] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of a third connector of
a modular display system according to the invention;
[0016] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of a plurality of second
connectors and a third connector of a modular display system
according to the invention;
[0017] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an end member of a modular
display system according to the invention;
[0018] FIG. 13 is a side view of a second rod of a modular display
system according to the invention;
[0019] FIG. 14 is a side view of a second rod of a modular display
system according to the invention;
[0020] FIG. 15 is a side view of a third rod of a modular display
system according to the invention;
[0021] FIG. 16 is an enlarged perspective view of the modular
display system of FIG. 2;
[0022] FIG. 17 is a rear view of the modular display system
according to the invention;
[0023] FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the modular display system of
FIG. 17, taken along line 18-18;
[0024] FIG. 19 is a sectional view of the modular display system of
FIG. 17, taken along line 19-19;
[0025] FIG. 20 is a close up perspective view of a plurality of
first connectors of the modular display system of FIG. 17;
[0026] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a pair of first connectors
of the modular display system according to the invention;
[0027] FIG. 22 is sectional view of the plurality of first
connectors of the modular display system of FIG. 21, taken along
line 22-22;
[0028] FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of a plurality of
second connectors of a modular display system according to the
invention;
[0029] FIG. 24 is another perspective view of a plurality of second
connectors according to the invention;
[0030] FIG. 25 is a sectional view of the plurality of second
connectors of FIG. 24, taken along line 25-25;
[0031] FIG. 26 is a sectional view of the plurality of second
connectors of FIG. 24, taken along line 26-26;
[0032] FIG. 27 is a side view of a plurality of second connectors
and a third connector of a modular display system according to the
invention;
[0033] FIG. 28 is a sectional view of a plurality of second
connectors and a third connector of a modular display system
according to the invention;
[0034] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a plurality of second
connectors and a third connector of a modular display system
according to the invention;
[0035] FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of an end member and
a second connector of a modular display system according to the
invention;
[0036] FIG. 31 is a sectional view of the end member and the second
connector of FIG. 30, as assembled;
[0037] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the end member and the
second connector of FIG. 30, as assembled;
[0038] FIG. 33 is a side view of the end member and the second
connector of FIG. 30;
[0039] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of an end member and a second
connector of a modular display system according to the invention;
and
[0040] FIG. 35 is a sectional view of the end member and second
connector of FIG. 34, taken along line 35-35.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT(S)
[0041] The invention is explained in greater detail below with
reference to embodiments of a modular display system. The
invention, may, however, be embodied in many different forms and
should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth
herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this
disclosure will be thorough and complete and still fully convey the
scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.
[0042] A modular display system 1 according to an embodiment of the
invention is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In the shown embodiment, the
display system 1 includes the following major components: a
plurality of modular panels 10, a plurality of first connectors 20,
a plurality of first rods 30, a plurality of second connectors 40,
a plurality of third connectors 50, a plurality of end members 60,
a plurality of second rods 70, a plurality of third rods 80, a
plurality of bases 90, and a plurality of fasteners 100.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 1, the display system 1 includes a
plurality of modular panels 10 positioned adjacent to one another.
Each modular panel 10 includes a display element 12 and a
connection element 14. In the shown embodiment, each modular panel
10 is square shaped. However, one skilled in the art should
appreciate that other designs are possible, as long as such design
and shape would permit modular assembly and connection.
Additionally, each display element 12 can be any size, texture, or
material suitable for a particular display system use. As shown,
each connection element 14 includes a plurality of fastener
receiving passageways 16 which is a through receiving passageway
extending through a body of the modular panel 10. In the shown
embodiment, each fastener receiving passageway 16 is positioned
along corners of the squared shaped modular panel 10. However, one
skilled in the art should appreciate that the fastener receiving
passageways 16 may be positioned at different locations along the
perimeter of the modular panel 10.
[0044] Now with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the first connectors 20
will be described. As shown, each first connector 20 includes a
pair of support walls 24, a base 27, fastener receiving passageways
22, an outer edge wall 26, and a support connector 28. The elements
of the first connector 20 can be formed out of any structural
materials such as metal, fibrous material, plastic, or material
composite.
[0045] The support walls 24 are formed along a distal end of the
first connector 20. The pair of support walls 24 are positioned
orthogonal to each other and each include a fastener receiving
passageway 22. In the shown embodiment, each support wall 24
includes a fastener receiving passageway 22, but one skilled in the
art should appreciate that other designs are possible as long as
such design and shape would permit modular assembly and connection.
Furthermore, in the shown embodiment, each support wall 24 is
square shaped, but one skilled in the art should appreciate that
other designs are possible.
[0046] The base 27 is a surface extending between the distal and
proximal ends of the first connector 20. The base 27 is positioned
orthogonal to the support walls 24, and includes at least one
fastener receiving passageway 22. In the shown embodiment, the base
has two fastener receiving passageways 22, but one skilled in the
art should appreciate that any number of fastener receiving
passageways could be used. Furthermore, while the base 27 is
hexagonal shaped in the shown embodiment, one with skill in the art
would appreciate that the base 27 could be any shape that permits
the described elements and connections.
[0047] An outer edge wall 26, also positioned orthogonal to the
base 27, extends around the perimeter of the base 27 between the
proximal and distal ends of the first connector 20. In the shown
embodiment, the support walls 24 extend further upward from the
base 27 than the outer edge wall 26, but one skilled in the art
should appreciate that the outer edge wall 26 could have a range of
relative heights with respect to support wall 24.
[0048] The support connector 28 extends from the proximal end of
the first connector 20 at an angle with respect to the base 27. The
angle of the support connector 28 with respect to the base may be
less than 90.degree., is optionally between 30.degree. and
60.degree., and further is optionally 45.degree.. The support
connectors 28 can be solid or hollow. In the shown embodiment, each
support connector 28 is cylindrical. However, one skilled in the
art should appreciate that other polygonal shapes are possible
without departing from the spirit of the invention.
[0049] Now with reference to FIGS. 2, 5, and 6, the first rods 30
will be described. Each first rod 30 is an elongated hollow body
with two opposite, identical ends. In the shown embodiment, the
first rod 30 is cylindrical, but one skilled in the art should
appreciate that other designs are possible as long as such design
and shape would permit modular assembly and connection.
[0050] Now with reference to FIGS. 7-9, the second connector 40
will be described. As shown, the second connector 40 is a
monolithic plastic article. However, one skilled in the art should
appreciate that the second connector 40 could be prepared from
other known materials available to one skilled in the art,
including metals, fibrous material, or composites. In an
alternative embodiment, the second connector 40 could be formed
from separate pieces which are then attached together, as would be
appreciated by one with skill in the art. The second connector 40
includes a rod receiving passageway 41, top surface 46, a plurality
of support connectors 42, an outer wall 44, a plurality of support
elements 45, and a bottom surface 49.
[0051] The rod receiving passageway 41 has an outer ring 41a and an
inner ring 41b, which define an opening 48 extending through the
second connector 40. As shown, the inner ring 41b is disposed
within the outer ring 41a and covers only part of the inner surface
of the outer ring 41a, thus forming an flange that is the thickness
of the inner ring 41b.
[0052] The top surface 46 is a planar surface extending from the
rod receiving passageway 41. In the shown embodiment, the top
surface 46 is a curved shape, but one skilled in the art should
appreciate that other designs are possible as long as such design
and shape would permit modular assembly and connection.
[0053] In the shown embodiment, the support connectors 42 extend
away from the second connector 40, at angles with respect to the
top surface 46. Each support connector 42 is positioned along an
outer circumference thereof, along one side of the second connector
40 and separated from the rod receiving passageway 41 and the
opening 48. Each support connector 42 optionally includes a flange
disposed on the outside of the protrusions 43. The second connector
40 can be a range of possible shapes, and consequently, the support
connectors 42 can be positioned at any location on the shape, as
appreciated by one with skill in the art. Furthermore, although the
embodiment of FIGS. 7-9 shows two protrusions 43, the support
connectors 42 can be of any number required for the display system
application. The support connectors 42 can be either solid or
hollow.
[0054] The outer wall 44 extends along the circumference of the
second connector 40 between the outer ring 41a and the protrusions
43. The outer wall 44 can be of any height that provides sufficient
rigidity to the second connector 40.
[0055] Support elements 45 extend between the outer edges of the
outer ring 41a and the protrusions 43. The support element 45 is a
buttress type support in the shown embodiment. However, the support
element 45 can be of any number and size that provides sufficient
rigidity to the second connector 40.
[0056] The bottom surface 49 of the second connector 40 includes
mating connectors 47, as best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. In the shown
embodiments of FIGS. 7 and 8, the mating connectors 47 are a pair
of dovetail mating connectors. However, the mating connectors 47
could be any structure or material that forms a connection
removable connection, as well as an adhesive, fastener, or other
attachment means known to those with skill in the art. Further, in
the embodiment of FIGS. 7-9, the bottom surface 49 is flush with
the bottom of the inner ring 41b, as best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.
One with skill in the art would appreciate that the inner ring 41b
could be positioned at a range of locations along the inner surface
of the outer ring 41a.
[0057] Now with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, the third connector
50 will be described. Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the third
connector 50 includes a top surface 54, a bottom surface 57, an
edge 55, a mating connector 51, and protrusions 56. The third
connector 50 can be formed integrally and is shown as a plastic
article, but could be prepared from other known materials available
to one skilled in the art, including metals, fibrous material, or
composites. The third connector 50 could also be formed as
individual pieces which are then attached together, as would be
appreciated by one with skill in the art.
[0058] The top surface 54 is a planar body. In the shown
embodiment, the top surface 54 is a curved shape, but one skilled
in the art should appreciate that other designs are possible as
long as such design and shape would permit modular assembly and
connection. The bottom surface 57 is the side of the planar body
opposite the top surface 54. An edge 55 extends between the top
surface 54 and bottom surface 57 in a direction orthogonal to the
surfaces 54, 57. The edge 55 can be of any thickness that provides
sufficient rigidity to the third connector 50.
[0059] The mating connector 51, shown best in FIG. 11, is a
protrusion extending from the top surface 54. The mating connector
51 includes a mating inner surface 52, which defines a receiving
passageway 53 extending through the third connector 50. The mating
connector 51 is shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11 as a
threaded connection, but one with skill in the art would appreciate
that other mating connections could be used.
[0060] The protrusions 56, best shown in FIG. 10, extend away from
the third connector 50 at angles with respect to the bottom surface
57. The protrusions 56 are positioned near the outer circumference,
along one side of the third connector 50 and apart from the mating
connector 51 and the receiving passageway 53. The protrusions can
be solid or hollow, and optionally include an abutment flange
disposed on the outside of the protrusion 56. The protrusions 56
can be positioned at any location on the shape of third connector
50, as should be appreciated by one with skill in the art.
Furthermore, although the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11 shows two
protrusions 56, the protrusions 56 can be of any number required
for the display system application.
[0061] Now with reference to FIG. 12, an end member 60 will be
described. The end member 60 includes a handle 61, a ring surface
62, and a connector 63.
[0062] The embodiment of FIG. 12 shows the handle 61 as a sculpted
shape, but one with skill in the art should appreciate that the
handle 61 could be any of a range of shapes. The ring surface 62
extends from the distal end of the handle 61. The connector 63
extends from the ring surface 62, and has a connecting end 63b
along with an annular surface 63a. FIG. 12 shows the connecting end
63b as a threaded male connector, but one with skill in the art
would appreciate that the connector 63 could be either a male or
female connector, and could be other mating connections
alternatively to the threaded connection.
[0063] The end member 60 can be formed integrally and in an
exemplary embodiment is a plastic handle 61 with an aluminum ring
surface 62 and connector 63. However, any element of the end member
60 could be prepared from other known materials available to one
skilled in the art, including metals, fibrous material, or
composites. The end member 60 could also be formed as individual
pieces which are then attached together, as would be appreciated by
one with skill in the art.
[0064] Now with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, a second rod 70 will
be described. The second rod 70 includes an elongated body with an
end loop 71 positioned at a proximal end and a mating connector 72
positioned at a distal end. In the shown embodiment, the elongated
body of the second rod 70 is cylindrical, but one skilled in the
art should appreciate that other designs are possible as long as
such design and shape would permit modular assembly and connection.
The end loop 71 defines a receiving passageway 71a. The mating
connector 72 may be either a male connector, shown in FIG. 13, or a
female connector, shown in FIG. 14. In the shown embodiment, the
mating connector 72 is a threaded connector, but one skilled in the
art should appreciate that the connector could be other mating
connections alternatively to the threaded connection.
[0065] Now with reference to FIG. 15, a third rod 80 will be
described. The third rod 80 includes an elongated body with a first
mating connector 81 positioned at a proximal end, and a second
mating connector 82 positioned at a distal end. In the shown
embodiment, the third rod 80 is cylindrical shaped, but one skilled
in the art should appreciate that other designs are possible as
long as such design and shape would permit modular assembly and
connection. The first mating connector 81 is a male connector,
while the second mating connector 82 is a female connector. In the
shown embodiment, the mating connectors 81, 82 are threaded
connectors, but one skilled in the art should appreciate that the
connector could be other mating connections alternatively to the
threaded connection.
[0066] Now with reference to FIGS. 2 and 16, a base 90 will be
described. As shown, the base 90 includes a base body 91, a
plurality of fastener receiving passageways 92, and a grip 93.
[0067] The base body 91 is a planar object made from a solid
structural material, such as a metal such as aluminum. However, one
skilled in the art would appreciate that the base body 91 may be
prepared from other structural materials such as fibrous material,
plastic, or material composite, and include various polygonal
shapes. Further, one skilled in the art would appreciate that the
base body 91 may be hollow. The base body 91 includes a major
planar surface that is a support surface.
[0068] The fastener receiving passageways 92 are openings or
passageways extending through the base body 91. The fastener
receiving passageway 92 may extend completely through the base body
91, or may be a blind receiving passageway that only partially
extends through the base body 91.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 16, the grip 93 is an oval shaped opening
positioned along a side of the base body 91. The grip 93 may be
integral to the base 90 or a separate component that attaches to
the base 90. For instance, in other embodiments, the grip 93 may be
an abrasive material, a coating, or resistive pattern disposed
along a surface of the base body 91, such as grooved patterns or
sand paper material. Additionally, one skilled in the art would
appreciate that connecting articles may be used, including a
handle, a knob, or other gripping members.
[0070] Now with reference to FIGS. 6, 18, and 19, the fasteners 100
will be described. Each fastener 100 is a swell latch including a
lever 102, a screw 104, a washer 106, and a nut 108. The lever 102
is connected to a proximal end of the screw 104. The washer 106 is
an annular element extending around the circumference of the screw
104. In the shown embodiment the washer 106 is formed of rubber,
but one with skill in the art should appreciate that the washer 106
could be formed of any elastically deformable material. The nut 108
is positioned on a distal end of the screw 104, and abuts the
washer 106. The lever 102, screw 104, and nut 108 are formed of
plastic in the shown embodiment, but one skilled in the art should
appreciate that these elements could be formed of any material that
permits the function of the swell latch and modular element
fastening. Further, one skilled in the art should appreciate that
the fastener 100, in other embodiments, may be any known type of
fastener, such a latch, screw, nut and bolt, hook and loop
fastener, and removable adhesive.
[0071] Now, with reference to the drawings, assembly of the modular
display system 1 will be described.
[0072] As shown in FIG. 2, the first connectors 20 are attached to
a rear of the modular panels 10, and are also attached to first
connectors 20 of an adjacent modular panel 10. As shown in FIG. 2,
first connectors 20 are positioned along each edge of the square
modular panels 10, but the first connectors 20 can be oriented on
the rear of the modular panels 10 in any number and configurations
known to those skilled in the art that would permit modular
assembly and connection.
[0073] The connection between a modular panel 10 and a first
connector 20 is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 17-20. FIG. 17, in
particular, outlines three types of connections 130, 140, and 150
between first connectors 20 and modular panels 10.
[0074] As shown in FIG. 18, two first connectors 20 and fasteners
100 are connected to form the connection 130. As shown in FIG. 18,
the left modular panel 10a abuts the right modular panel 10b. The
first connector 20 positioned on the left abuts a modular panel
10a, and is positioned such that the support wall 24 contacts the
rear of left modular panel 10a. A fastener 100 extends through both
the fastener receiving passageway 22 in the support wall 24 and
through fastener receiving passageway 16 in the modular panel 10a.
The swell latch fastener 100 attaches first connector 20 to the
modular panel 10a, and also connects display element 12 to the
modular panel 10a.
[0075] The first connector 20 on the right abuts the rear of right
modular panel 10b, and is positioned such that the support wall 24
contacts the rear of right modular panel 10b. A fastener 100
extends through both the fastener receiving passageway 22 in
support wall 24 and through fastener receiving passageway 16 in the
modular panel 10b. The swell latch fastener 100 attaches first
connector 20 to modular panel 10b.
[0076] In addition to connecting each first connector 20 to the
modular panels 10a and 10b, the connection 130 in FIG. 18 also
depicts a connection between the two first connectors 20 to
laterally connect the modular panels 10a and 10b. The support wall
24 of left modular panel 10a abuts the base 27 of right modular
panel 10b. A fastener 100 extends through both the fastener
receiving passageway 22 of support wall 24 and fastener receiving
passageway 22 of base 27 of right modular panel 10b, attaching the
left modular panel 10a to the right modular panel 10b.
[0077] The fasteners 100 in the embodiment of FIG. 18 extend
through the aligned fastener receiving passageways with the lever
on a particular side. However, one with skill in the art would
appreciate that the fasteners could extend through the aligned
fastener receiving passageways and attach two abutting elements
independent of the side on which the lever is disposed.
[0078] The connection 140 of FIG. 17 will now be described. As
shown in FIG. 19, two first connectors 20 along with fasteners 100
used to form the connection 140 of FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 19,
the left modular panel 10c abuts the right modular panel 10d. Left
first connector 20 abuts left modular panel 10c, and is positioned
such that support wall 24 contacts the rear of left modular panel
10c. A fastener 100-4 extends through both the fastener receiving
passageway 22 in support wall 24 and through fastener receiving
passageway 16 in modular panel 10c. The swell latch fastener 100-4
attaches first connector 20 to modular panel 10c.
[0079] Right first connector 20 abuts the rear of right modular
panel 10d, and is positioned such that the support wall 24 contacts
the rear of right modular panel 10d. A fastener 100 extends through
both the fastener receiving passageway 22 in support wall 24 and
through fastener receiving passageway 16 in the modular panel 10d.
The swell latch fastener 100-5 attaches first connector 20 to
modular panel 10d.
[0080] In addition to connecting each first connector 20 to modular
panels 10c and 10d, the connection 140 in FIG. 19 also depicts a
connection between the two first connectors 20 and 20 to laterally
connect the modular panels 10c and 10d. The base 27 of left modular
panel 10c abuts the base 27 of right modular panel 10d. The
fastener 100 extends through both the fastener receiving passageway
22 of base 27 and fastener receiving passageway 22 of base 27,
attaching left modular panel 10c to right modular panel 10d.
[0081] The connection 140 is also shown in FIGS. 21 and 22; the
connection embodiment depicted in FIGS. 21 and 22 vertically
connects modular panels, while the connection embodiment depicted
in FIG. 19 laterally connects modular panels.
[0082] The fasteners 100 in FIG. 19 extend through the aligned
fastener receiving passageways with the lever on a particular side.
However, one with skill in the art would appreciate that the
fasteners could extend through the aligned fastener receiving
passageways and attach two abutting elements independent of the
side on which the lever is disposed.
[0083] The connection 150 of FIG. 17 will now be described. As
shown in FIG. 20, connections between modular panels 10 using first
connectors 20 in the modular display system 1 can be formed from
aforementioned connections 130 in FIG. 18 and 140 in FIG. 19. The
two modular panels 10e and 10f in FIG. 20 are two vertically
connected panels. Modular panels 10e and 10f are each connected to
first connectors 20, respectively, and first connectors 20 are
connected to one another in the same manner as connection 140
described with reference to FIG. 19; the fastener 100 connects the
two modular panels 10 through fastener receiving passageways in
their respective bases.
[0084] The modular panel 10g in FIG. 20 is a modular panel that
extends laterally from modular panel 10f, and connects to the
modular panel 10f in the same manner as connection 130 described
above with reference to FIG. 18; the fastener 100 connects the two
modular panels 10g and 10f through an alignment of a fastener
receiving passageway in the base of first connector 20 and a
fastener receiving passageway in a wall of first connector 20. The
connection 150 thus shows a connection of two vertically connected
modular panels 10 to a one laterally connected modular panel
10.
[0085] The first connectors 20 connecting the base body 91 and a
modular panel 10 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 6
and 16. This connection is outlined in box 120 in FIG. 16,
depicting the connection of the first connectors 20 at the proximal
end of the base body 91. As shown in FIG. 6, the first connector 20
is attached to the base body 91 via fastener 100 extending through
fastener receiving passageway 22 in the base 27 and aligned
fastener receiving passageway 92 in the base body 91. The first
connector 20 is attached to the modular panel 10 via fastener 100
extending through the fastener receiving passageway 22 in the
support wall 24, and through an aligned fastener receiving
passageway 16 (not shown) in the modular panel 10.
[0086] As shown in FIG. 16, the first connectors 20 at the distal
end of the base body 91 are not also connected to a modular panel
10. These first connectors 20 are attached to the base body 91 via
fastener 100 extending through fastener receiving passageway 22 in
the base 27 and aligned fastener receiving passageway 92 in the
base body 91.
[0087] The connection of the first rods 30 will now be described
with reference to FIGS. 2 and 6. As shown in FIG. 6, the protrusion
29+of the first connector 20 forms a mating connection with a
proximal end 32 of the first rod 30, such that the first rod 30 is
attached to the first connector 20 and extends away from the first
connector 20 at the angle of the protrusion 29. A fastener, such as
a screw 104, is optionally used to secure the mating connection
between the protrusion 29 and the first rod 30. As shown in FIG. 2,
a first rod 30 extends from the protrusion 29 of each first
connector 20.
[0088] The distal end 34 of a first rod 30 is connected to a second
connector 40 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 14-17. The distal end 34 forms
a mating connection with the support connectors 42 of a second
connector 40. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the first rods 30
fit over the support connectors 42 and abut the abutment flange,
but the first rods 30 could also fit inside the protrusions 43, as
should be appreciated by those with skill in the art. The mating
connection between the first rods 30 and the support connectors 42
can optionally be secured by a screw or other fastening element
(not shown).
[0089] Two second connectors 40 are connected via mating connectors
47, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24. Further, a third rod 80 connects
to another third rod 80 through the mated second connectors 40. As
shown in FIG. 23, the ends of the third rods 80 extend into the
openings 48 of each second connector 40. A surface 81a of the male
end 81 abuts the abutment flange of one second connector 40, while
a surface 82a of the female end 82 abuts the abutment flange of the
mating second connector 40. The male end 81 of third rods 80
matingly connects with the female end 82 of other rod 80 through
the opening 48 that extends through the second connectors 40. The
connection of both second connectors 40 and the connection of the
rods 30 and 80 to the second connector 40 is shown in FIG. 24.
[0090] FIGS. 25 and 26 are sectional views of the assembled second
connector 40 and third rods 80 connecting through the second
connector 40. FIG. 25 shows the two third rods 80 matingly
connected, with surface 81a of male end 81 abutting the abutment
flange, and surface 82a of the female end 82 abutting the abutment
flange. FIG. 26 shows a section of the assembled second connector
40 including a section of the connection of the third rods 80 also
depicted in FIG. 25 along with the connection of the mating
connectors 47 of second connector halves.
[0091] The first rods 30 also form mating connections with the
protrusions 56 of the third connector 50, as shown in FIGS. 11 and
27-29. In the embodiment shown best in FIG. 27, the first rods 30
fit over the protrusions 56 and abut the flange, but the first rods
30 could also fit inside the protrusions 56, as would be
appreciated by those with skill in the art. The mating connection
between the first rods 30 and the protrusions 56 can optionally be
secured by a screw or other fastening element (not shown).
[0092] The third connector 50 is also connected to the second
connector 40, as shown in FIG. 11. The mating connector 51 of the
third connector 50 extends into the opening 48 of the second
connector 40. Similarly to the third rods 80 described above with
reference to FIG. 25, now referring to sectional view FIG. 28, the
mating connector 51 extends into opening 48 within outer ring 41a
of the second connector 40, and surface 51a abuts the inner ring
flange. The mating connector 51 is positioned within the opening 48
such that the outer ring 41a also abuts the top surface 54 of the
third connector 50.
[0093] The corresponding mating end of a third rods 80 extends into
the other end of opening 48, also abuts the flange, and connects
with mating inner surface 52 of the third connector 50. The third
rods 80 thus fastens second connector 40 to third connector 50, as
shown fully fastened in FIGS. 28 and 29, the assembly also
including the connection of the first rods 30 to both the second
connector 40 and the third connector 50. The embodiment shown in
FIGS. 11 and 28 shows the mating connector 51 of the third
connector 50 as the female connector, and the mating end of the
third rods 80 as the male connector, but one with skill in the art
would appreciate that the mating male and female connectors could
be disposed on either element.
[0094] A connection involving the end member 60 and the second rod
70 is depicted in FIGS. 12 and 30-35, and will now be described in
greater detail.
[0095] The end member 60 connects to a second connector 40, which
also forms a connection with second rod 70, as shown in FIG. 30.
Connector 63 extends down through receiving passageway 71a and into
opening 48 of the second connector 40. Similarly to the other
connections described above, as best shown in the sectional view of
FIG. 31, the annular surface 63a abuts the flange, while the ring
surface 62 abuts the end loop 71, which abuts the outer ring 41a. A
mating third rod 80 extends up into opening 48, also abutting a
flange, and connects with the connector 63.
[0096] The connection results in the assembly shown in FIG. 32,
fastening the end member 60, the second rod 70, and the second
connector 40, along with other rods 80 and 30 attached to the
second connector 40. FIG. 33 shows the end member 60 and second
connector 40 assembly connecting via the first rod 30 to first
connector 20. The positioning and connections of the end member 60
and second connector 40 assembly within the modular display system
1 is also shown in FIGS. 2 and 16.
[0097] FIGS. 34 and 35 are similar to FIGS. 31 and 32 described
above, however, FIGS. 34 and 35 show an alternative embodiment of
the end member 60 and second connector 40 connection that omits the
further connection to second rod 70. In this embodiment, the ring
surface 62 directly abuts the outer ring 41a without the
intervening end loop 71.
[0098] Now, with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, a connection assembly
for use of the display system 1 will be described. In general, as
shown in FIG. 1, the display system 1 is assembled such that a
plurality of modular panels 10 are displayed as a setting or
background for a scene, event, or situation.
[0099] Generally, each modular panel 10 is attached to the same
supporting structure. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, first
connectors 20 are connected to each corner of the rear of a modular
panel 10. The first rods 30 attached to each first connector 20
extend to attach to one mated pair of second connectors 40 per
modular panel 10. This assembly is the basic modular panel 10 plus
structural support, or modular panel assembly 100 outlined in FIG.
2, used to create a wide variety of possible modular displays
1.
[0100] The construction of the modular display system 1 using the
modular panel assembly 100 requires three additional
considerations: the standard connection of two adjacent modular
panel assemblies 100, the formation of a side support section 110
outlined in FIG. 2, and the connections used when adjacent modular
panel assemblies 100 have second connectors 40 facing different
directions. Each of these assembly considerations will now be
addressed in order.
[0101] In the standard connection of two adjacent modular panel
assemblies 100, both the first connectors 20 at the rear of the
modular panels 10 and the second connectors 40 corresponding to
each modular panel 10 are connected. For example, the user places
another modular panel assembly 100 adjacent to the first modular
panel assembly 100, such as vertically with respect to the first
modular panel assembly 100 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 16. The adjacent
first connectors 20 are connected with fasteners 100, as described
above with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19, and the second connectors
40 are attached with the third rods 80, as described above with
reference to FIG. 23. When the modular panel assemblies 100 are
assembled vertically, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 16, the second
connectors 40 are parallel to one another.
[0102] The side support section 110 of the display system 1
includes a plurality of modular panels 10 and a base 90. In the
formation of the base 90 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1, 2, and 16, a
user positions a base body 91, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 16, on a
surface, such as a floor. The distance between the adjacent base
bodies 91 shown in FIG. 2 will depend on the overall dimensions and
shape of the display system 1, as designed for a particular
purpose. The user positions a base 90 using the grip 93 shown in
FIG. 16.
[0103] The display system 1 is assembled upward from the base,
beginning with attaching the first connectors 20 to the rear of the
base body 91 using fasteners 100 as described with reference to
FIGS. 6 and 16. In the embodiment of FIG. 16, two first connectors
20 are each attached at the rear corners of the square base body
91. The first connectors 20 are oriented such that the protrusions
29 extend in the direction of the center of the base 90. A first
rod 30 is attached to each of the protrusions 29 of the first
connectors 20 on the base 90. As described above, the first end of
the first rods 30 can slidably mate with the protrusions 29, and
the mating connection can be additionally secured by a screw 104
shown in FIG. 6. The first rods 30 extending from the first
connectors at the rear of the base 90 connect at a second end to
the third connector 50.
[0104] The modular panel assembly 100 is attached to the front of
the base body 91, such that the second connector 40 is positioned
over the center of the base body 91, and abuts the third connector
50, as shown in FIG. 5. The third rods 80 is then inserted into the
opening 48 of second connector 40 to connect second connector 40
and third connector 50, as described above with reference to FIG.
11. This connection forms a quadpod extending up from base 90 as
shown in FIGS. 2 and 16.
[0105] The resulting assembly is a base body 91 connected to an
orthogonally positioned modular panel assembly 100, wherein the
first rods 30 connect the modular panel 10 to the second connector
40, and the first rods 30 connect the base body 91 to both the
second connector 40 and the third connector 50.
[0106] To complete the side support section 110, another modular
panel assembly 100 is attached atop the first modular panel
assembly 100 connected to the base body 91. The adjacent first
connectors 20 are connected with fasteners 100, as described above
with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19. The third rods 80 extending from
the base second connector 40 and third connector 50 is connected to
the top second connector 40 using an end member 60, as described
above with reference to FIG. 30. This forms a side support section
110 of the display system 1 including a plurality of modular panels
10 and a base 90, shown in FIG. 16. The side support section 110
shown in FIG. 16 includes two modular panels 10, but one with
ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that the side support
section could include any number of vertically connected modular
panels 10.
[0107] A user can also connect two adjacent modular panel
assemblies 100 when the second connectors 40 are orthogonal to one
another. This is shown, for example, in the connection between the
top panel of the vertically extending side support section 110 and
the adjacent, laterally extending modular panel assembly 100 shown
in FIG. 2. In such a connection, the adjacent first connectors 20
are connected according to the description above with reference to
FIGS. 18 and 20. A second rod 70 extends from the second connector
40 of the lateral modular panel assembly 100, and connects to the
orthogonal second connector 40 via the end loop 71 as described
above with reference to FIG. 30. The end member 60 is used to
secure the end loop 71 and second rod 70 to the second connector 40
of the top panel of the vertically extending side support section
110, thus connecting vertically connected modular panel assemblies
100 within 110 to a laterally extending modular panel assembly
100.
[0108] FIGS. 1 and 2 show only one example of the variety of
modular displays 1 that can be created using the above description.
FIGS. 16, 34, and 35 show an alternative embodiment in which the
modular display is only the side support section 110, when only a
vertical display is desired. In this embodiment, shown best in
FIGS. 34 and 35, the end member 60 is connected directly to the
second connector 40, and does not additionally connect an end loop
71 as in FIG. 1 above. The resultant display system 1 is created
such that display elements 12 are oriented for viewing.
[0109] The foregoing illustrates some of the possibilities for
practicing the invention. Many other embodiments are possible
within the scope and spirit of the invention. The disclosed
invention utilizes the above identified components, as a system, in
order to more efficiently construct a display system 1 for a
particular purpose. Therefore, more or less of the aforementioned
components can be used to conform to that particular purpose. It
is, therefore, intended that the foregoing description be regarded
as illustrative rather than limiting, and that the scope of the
invention is given by the appended claims together with their full
range of equivalents.
* * * * *